Ford to unveil AWD Focus RS and F-150 SVT Raptor at Detroit show
Ford will debut the all-wheel drive Focus RS hot hatch and the new F-150 SVT Raptor pickup at the 2015 Detroit Motor Show, previewing its performance priorities for the coming year.
Ford will introduce two of its most anticipated performance models at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit: the all-wheel drive Focus RS and the new F-150 SVT Raptor. The move signals Ford's intent to strengthen its position in both the hot hatch and high-performance pickup segments.
The Focus RS, long a cult favourite among enthusiasts, will break with its front-wheel drive tradition. Reports ahead of the show indicate the new RS will use an all-wheel drive system, a first for the model, which should put it in direct competition with rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf R and Subaru WRX STI. The new drivetrain is expected to give the Focus RS more traction and sharper handling than any previous RS, addressing a frequent criticism of torque steer in high-powered front-drive hot hatches.
Under the bonnet, the Focus RS is set to receive the 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine already found in the Ford Mustang, but tuned for higher output. Early information suggests a power figure at least 20 to 30 horsepower above the Mustang's 310 hp, placing the RS comfortably over the 330 hp mark. Ford has not confirmed whether a less powerful front-wheel drive version will be offered, but sources suggest the all-wheel drive variant will headline the launch.
AWD Focus RS: technical leap for the hot hatch
- 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine, shared with Mustang
- Expected output above 330 hp
- All-wheel drive with torque vectoring
- Likely six-speed manual gearbox
F-150 SVT Raptor returns with new platform
Alongside the Focus RS, Ford will also reveal the new F-150 SVT Raptor, based on the latest generation of its best-selling pickup. The new Raptor will benefit from the F-150's aluminium body, which cuts weight and should improve both performance and efficiency. Ford aims to build on the Raptor's reputation for off-road capability, pitching it against rivals such as the Ram 1500 Rebel and Toyota Tundra TRD Pro.
Full technical details for the Raptor remain under wraps until the Detroit debut, but the model is expected to feature uprated suspension, dedicated off-road tyres and a powertrain tailored for high-speed desert running. The outgoing Raptor used a 6.2-litre V8, but Ford is likely to shift to a more efficient EcoBoost engine for the new model, in line with the rest of the F-150 range.
What to expect at Detroit
Both the Focus RS and F-150 SVT Raptor will be officially unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2015. Ford is expected to provide full technical specifications, pricing and availability details at the event. The Focus RS will target buyers seeking a track-capable hot hatch with everyday usability, while the Raptor will appeal to off-road enthusiasts and pickup owners looking for factory-backed performance.
